Shortis played with a powerful presence and had such an impactful weekend using his size and physicality to make a major impact inside. He attacked the paint with purpose every time he touched the ball, finishing strong through contact and keeping defenders on their heels. His ability to carve out space and control the glass stood out, turning rebounds into second chance points and momentum swings. Shortis didn’t just rely on size but he played with energy, toughness and confidence that fueled his team. Whether it was a hard drive, a putback or battling in the post, he made his presence felt every possession. A force down low who embraced the moment and delivered

Jeremiah Shortis Jeremiah Shortis 6'5" | PF Cherokee Trail | 2028 State CO was a force on the interior for Cherokee Trail, leading the team in both field goal percentage (60%) and blocked shots (0.9 BPG). Averaging 8.5 PPG and 5.2 RPG, the 6’5 powerhouse provided a consistent double-threat in the paint for the Cougars. His scoring bag at 6’5 makes him a legitimate threat at all times. Shortis constantly makes defenses pay for giving him an inch of room to work with. As a top-10 rebounder and shot-blocker in the 6A Centennial League, Shortis enters his junior year as a premier 2-way anchor for Cherokee Trail.

Jeremiah Shortis Jeremiah Shortis 6'5" | PF Cherokee Trail | 2028 State CO established himself as a high-impact sophomore for the Cougars this season, providing a steady interior presence and defensive grit. The 6’5″ forward finished the year with 8.8 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.2 SPG, and 0.9 BPG. His efficiency was a season-long highlight, as he led the team with a60% field goal percentage and finished among the top four shot-blockers in the Centennial League. Shortis delivered several breakout performances that distinguished him as a solidified star. Shortis’ defensive versatility and reliable scoring helped anchor the Cougars through a competitive schedule, cementing his status as one of the premier young guys Colorado has to offer.

Shortis is a player that we were skeptical about putting on the list. If he’s able to play this season, he easily becomes one of the top underclassmen in the conference as he will be able to make a mark the moment that he’s on the court. He is a balanced and under-the-radar prospect whose impact goes beyond the box score. He’s strong, uses his strength to his advantage, and does whatever the team needs. He’s an excellent rebounder who keeps plays alive, runs the floor for finishes or to open up the floor, and is a versatile defender who you can put on a guard or big to slow them down. Shortis will be a valuable piece for Cherokee Trail moving forward and is a player to keep on your radar as we personally believe he’s better than given credit for. 

Shortis is a player that we’re certainly intrigued by, but we want to see more of. He’s not an actual big, but he’s a player that is capable of guarding positions 1-4, and in most cases, the big as well. We envision him as a catalyst for Columbine as he does not have to score, but he’s capable of attacking in iso situations, either creating off of the dribble or setting the screen and rolling for a basket. For Pluto Prospects this summer, he did all of that and then some. We want to see him get out and take over in a showcase setting, and he’s a player that we feel is capable of doing it. 

Jeremiah Shortis Jeremiah Shortis 6'5" | PF Cherokee Trail | 2028 State CO is a physical force at the wing/forward spot, posting 9.9 points and 5.4 rebounds as a freshman. He overpowers defenders in the paint, finishes through contact, and controls the glass with strength and effort. Shortis continues to expand his skill set and is having a productive summer. With his numbers and upside, Year 2 is set to be even bigger so he must take the next step. He comes in at the no. 13 spot.

Columbine is a team that I am excited to see get after it as they have multiple young pieces that will allow them to compete next season. They have spunk and 6’4 forward Jeremiah Shortis Jeremiah Shortis 6'5" | PF Cherokee Trail | 2028 State CO is at the top of the list of freshman I’m excited to see this summer. In his freshman campaign he put up 9.9 points and 5.4 rebounds a game. Shortis uses his size inside, backs players down and has a motor to get to where he wants on the floor. He has excellent footwork and likes to create and hunt mismatches which is rare for a player at that age. I am excited to see him continue to expand his game and hone in on the skills that make him special as he looks to be one of the most exciting players in this class. 

Shortis immediately established himself as a dominant interior presence. Using his size and physicality, he controlled the glass and consistently created second chance opportunities. When he sealed deep in the post, he was nearly automatic, finishing quickly and efficiently around the rim. In his second game, he went on a scoring tear, pouring in 10 straight points in the paint and proving just how tough he is to contain once he finds his rhythm.

Shortis has been a high motor forward who will be relied upon over the coming years given his size and ability to impact the defensive end of the floor at this early stage. The physical tools at this stage allow him to be an efficient finisher around the rim, at his best with the right hand.